DESCRIPTION ‘One Size Fits All’ generally does not work when it comes to Intellectual Property Strategies. How to handle trade secrets in the new world of the America Invents Act is no exception. Two seasoned practitioners: one from a computer/mechanical/electrical perspective (Alain Villeneuve); and, the other from a chemical/biotech/life sciences perspective (Tom Kowalski) will analyze, in a point-counter point fashion, when it may be best to hold the cards close to the vest and maintain a trade secret versus when it may be best to be a ‘first filer’ and pursue patent protection. The session will appeal to individuals in all aspects of licensing. The audience should expect lively discussion as the practitioners may likely have points of disagreement based on their divergent technological perspectives, and an illuminating, educational experience for all.

CANCELLATION POLICYNo refunds after February 8
Substitutions are permitted

SPEAKER BIOSTom Kowalski, Shareholder, Vedder Price
Thomas J. Kowalski, a Shareholder in the New York office of Vedder Price and a member of the firm’s Intellectual Property group, has been in practice for 30 years. His practice includes biotech, chemical and medical apparatus litigation, patent prosecution, licensing and counseling. Mr. Kowalski also represents his clients in procuring and enforcing trademarks.

In addition to his law practice, Mr. Kowalski is an Adjunct Professor teaching intellectual property law at New York University's Brooklyn Campus (Polytechnic Institute of New York University) as part of the Master of Science in Management program. Mr. Kowalski was previously selected for inclusion in New York Super Lawyers. He was also named in International Who’s Who of Patent Attorneys for 2010-2011 as well as 2011- 2012. Mr. Kowalski received an "AV Preeminent" Peer Rating in Martindale-Hubbel. Mr. Kowalski holds a J.D. degree from St. John's University School of Law, and a Bachelor of Science degree from New York University.

Alain Villeneuve, Shareholder, Vedder Price
Alain Villeneuve is a Shareholder in the Chicago Office and practices in the Intellectual Property group. Mr. Villeneuve joined Vedder Price as an Associate in 2006. He represents clients in a wide range of corporate matters, immigration matters and intellectual property matters, including the prosecution of patents and the registration and monitoring of trademarks and copyrights.

Mr. Villeneuve is a U.S. Patent Attorney and a Solicitor registered to practice in a plurality of foreign jurisdictions. Mr. Villeneuve is a native French speaker and is fluent in Italian and English. Mr. Villeneuve was selected for inclusion from 2009 to 2013 as an Illinois Rising Star by Super Lawyers Magazine. He holds advanced degrees from McGill University & Hautes Etudes Commerciales, University of Montreal, University of Illinois College of Law, Cornell University International Law Program, and Polytechnique of Montréal.